If you’re thinking of moving to a new area when you retire, then check out North Georgia, as it’s fast becoming one of the most desirable retirement areas in the United States. Not only does North Georgia abound in natural beauty with mountains, lakes, and waterfalls, but it also has much to offer active seniors.
“Halfbacks” from Florida
When you move to Georgia, you soon meet many “halfbacks” (Northerners who first moved to Florida to migrate halfway back.) Hurricanes, overcrowding, rising crime, and unaffordable housing in the sunshine state have made Georgia a haven for retirees who thought they wanted to spend their golden years in Florida.
Mild climate with Four Distinct Seasons
Unlike western North Carolina where freezing winter temperatures force many retirees to travel south to winter homes in Florida, the North Georgia Mountains offers a milder climate with average temperature highs in the winter topping off in the 50s, dropping below the freezing mark at night. And, if it does snow, it usually melts by noon, the next day. Yet, there are four distinct seasons in North Georgia, with fall foliage about as spectacular as that of New England. What’s more, the North Georgia Mountains have cooler summers (as opposed to hotter weather, just south, near the greater Atlanta area.)
Popular North Georgia Small Towns
1. Dahlonega, Georgia—-Although all the North Georgia Mountain towns offer the ultimate in natural beauty and small town charm, Dahlonega affords more to do for active seniors. Home to the first U.S. Gold Rush in 1828, Dahlonega, Georgia was recently rated third in low cost living for retirees according to a June 3, 2007 article in the U.S. World and News Report. Not only is Dahlonega a low cost area, but it offers plenty of activities for active retirees. The downtown square hosts events all year long, a few of the more popular ones including “Gold Rush” in mid-October and “Bear in the Square” in April. Just about every month features a different theme where both tourists and residents flock to the square for parades, craft fairs, and other festivities. A college town, Dahlonega is also home to North Georgia College and State University, which allows seniors to audit classes free once they’re 62 years. In addition, throughout the year, the college offers a variety of cultural activities.
2. Helen, Georgia—Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains in White County, charming Helen is a take-off on a Swiss Alps mountain village that’s the scene each fall to Oktoberfest where tourists flock from all over the southeast for German style eating, polka and fun. However, all year long Helen draws people to this quaint Bavarian town.
3. Gainesville, Georgia—Located in Hall County, Gainesville is rated high in the book “Best 100 Places to Retire” by Richard L. Fox.
This historic town, located on Lake Lanier, is 50 miles northeast of Atlanta, complete with a variety of shopping and tourist attractions, such as the North Georgia Mountain Center.
4. Dawsonville, Georgia—About 45 minutes north of the Atlanta metropolitan area, Dawsonville stands at the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains. Besides offering beautiful scenery of mountains views, waterfalls, and lakes, Dawsonville also offers the massive North Georgia Outlet Mall, as well as other shops, besides a quaint town square where events are held throughout the year.
Visit More Than Once Before Moving
Finally, make more than one trip to theNorth Georgia area, trying out different communities before deciding on your new retirement town. If you’re like many first-time tourists, you just may decided to make North Georgia your new home.
